The document discusses the polar bear conservation debate between environmentalists and the business/industry perspective. Environmentalists are concerned about the declining polar bear population due to loss of arctic sea ice from climate change, which threatens the entire Arctic ecosystem. Supporters of business/industry argue that restricting trophy hunting and oil/gas exploration limits jobs and economic opportunities. Both sides have valid viewpoints around protecting species versus energy production and employment.
1. Who cares about the bears? An examination of the polar bear conservation debate. With Stevan Edgecombe I Do!!
2. Environmentalists and Conservationists Center for Biological Diversity (CBD) Estimated 20,000 - 25,000 polar bears worldwide. Apex predator - declining population indicates incredible stresses throughout entire supporting food chain. Prime stress factor = rapid decline of Artic sea ice from global climate change.
3. Business and Industry Sarah Palin, Former Gov. Alaska Misguided efforts to protect the polar bear restrict trophy hunting, the fees from which support conservation efforts in Canada. Increasing governmental regulation restricts oil and gas exploration.
4. Who’s Right? Both environmentalists and industry have valid arguments. Jobs Energy More $$$ Reduce global warming Save biodiversity Prevent species extinction
